PNoy: Nothing is impossible

by David Dizon, ABS-CBNnews.com

MANILA, Philippines – President Aquino on Monday trumpeted the accomplishments of his government in the past 2 years, saying that nothing is impossible once the Filipino people realize that they are the boss.

Aquino’s SONA, his 3rd since being elected in 2010, lasted over an hour and a half and was interrupted more than 100 times with applause. The loudest applause came after the President urged Congress to pass the Responsible Parenthood Bill, Malacanang’s own version of the controversial reproductive health bill.

True to his word, the President had no “Lenny Skutniks” or special guests similar to Mang Pandoy of former President Ramos or the “bangkang papel boys” of former President Arroyo to symbolize how he will accomplish his promises.

Instead, Aquino recited a long list of his administration’s accomplishments, and praised members of his own Cabinet and other government officials for a job well done.

Among the accomplishments he mentioned in the SONA are: a record 6.4% GDP growth in the first quarter of 2012, record performances of the stock market, rising tourist arrivals and record high increase in coco water exports.

He also answered critics who said that his “daang matuwid” and good governance drive would not benefit the poor.

He described fiscal management under the previous administration as like “the wild West” where “one hand would shake your hand while the other would ask for a bribe.”

He said that under his administration, leaks in the system due to corruption have been plugged and tax collections have risen,.